Ezekiel 30:5
Cush, Put, and Lud, and all the various peoples, as well as Libya and the men of the covenant land, will fall with Egypt by the sword.
Cush
Cush refers to the region south of Egypt, often associated with modern-day Sudan and Ethiopia. In the Hebrew Bible, Cush is frequently mentioned as a powerful and influential nation. The inclusion of Cush in this prophecy highlights the far-reaching impact of God's judgment, extending beyond Egypt to its allies and neighbors. Historically, Cush was known for its military prowess and wealth, making its downfall a significant event.

Put
Put is generally identified with the region west of Egypt, possibly corresponding to modern-day Libya. The mention of Put in this context underscores the comprehensive nature of the judgment against Egypt and its allies. Put's inclusion signifies the widespread influence of Egypt and the interconnectedness of these ancient nations through trade and military alliances.

Lud
Lud is often associated with the Lydians, an ancient people located in what is now western Turkey. The reference to Lud in this prophecy suggests the extensive reach of Egypt's influence and the broad scope of the impending judgment. Historically, the Lydians were known for their skills in archery and warfare, which adds to the gravity of their inclusion in this list of nations facing divine retribution.

all the mixed tribes
This phrase likely refers to various ethnic groups and mercenaries that were part of Egypt's military and social fabric. The presence of these mixed tribes indicates the diversity within Egypt's sphere of influence and the widespread nature of the judgment. It reflects the historical reality of Egypt as a melting pot of cultures and peoples, drawn by its wealth and power.

and Libya
Libya, located to the west of Egypt, was another significant ally and neighbor. The mention of Libya emphasizes the regional impact of the prophecy, as Libya was often involved in military and political alliances with Egypt. Historically, Libya was known for its fierce warriors and strategic importance, making its downfall a notable aspect of the prophecy.

and the sons of the land of the covenant
This phrase is intriguing as it may refer to the Israelites or other groups with whom Egypt had treaties or agreements. The "land of the covenant" could symbolize those who were in a special relationship with God or had agreements with Egypt. This inclusion highlights the betrayal and broken alliances that accompany the judgment, reminding readers of the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant.

will fall by the sword
The phrase "will fall by the sword" is a common biblical expression denoting violent death in battle. It signifies the severity and inevitability of the judgment decreed by God. The sword is often a symbol of divine justice and retribution, emphasizing that the downfall of these nations is a direct result of their actions and God's righteous judgment.

along with Egypt
The phrase "along with Egypt" ties the fate of these nations to that of Egypt, the central focus of the prophecy. Egypt, a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God's people, serves as a warning to all nations that defy God's authority. The collective downfall serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of pride and rebellion against God, urging readers to seek humility and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Cush
Often identified with the region south of Egypt, possibly modern-day Sudan or Ethiopia. Known for its warriors and archers.

2. Put
Generally associated with the region west of Egypt, possibly modern-day Libya. Known for its warriors.

3. Lud
Likely referring to a people group in Asia Minor, possibly Lydia, known for their skilled archers.

4. Arabia
Refers to the various tribes and regions in the Arabian Peninsula.

5. Libya
A region west of Egypt, known for its warriors and part of the broader coalition against Egypt.

6. People of the covenant land
Likely referring to the Israelites or other groups in the region who had treaties or agreements with Egypt.

7. Egypt
A major power in the ancient Near East, often in conflict with Israel and other nations.
Teaching Points
God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God's judgment on these nations demonstrates His control over all kingdoms and His ability to bring about His purposes through geopolitical events.

The Consequences of Alliances
The mention of the "people of the covenant land" serves as a warning about forming alliances that are not in line with God's will. Trust should be placed in God rather than in human powers.

The Inevitability of Divine Judgment
The prophecy underscores the certainty of God's judgment against sin and rebellion. It serves as a reminder to live righteously and in accordance with God's commands.

The Role of Prophecy in Scripture
Prophecies like this one in Ezekiel are meant to instruct and warn, showing that God's word is reliable and that His promises, both of blessing and judgment, will come to pass.

Hope Amidst Judgment
Even in the midst of judgment, there is hope for those who turn to God. The broader account of Scripture shows that God is merciful and desires repentance and restoration.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the prophecy against Egypt and its allies in Ezekiel 30:5 reflect God's sovereignty over nations?

2. What lessons can we learn from the alliances mentioned in this verse about where we place our trust today?

3. How does the judgment of these nations in Ezekiel 30:5 connect with the broader theme of divine judgment throughout the Bible?

4. In what ways can we see the fulfillment of God's prophecies in history, and how does this strengthen our faith in His promises?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's character, even when facing difficult or uncertain times, as illustrated in the prophecies of Ezekiel?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Isaiah 18
Discusses Cush and its role in the broader geopolitical landscape, highlighting its significance and eventual downfall.

Jeremiah 46
Provides a prophecy against Egypt, similar to Ezekiel's, emphasizing God's judgment on nations that oppose His will.

Ezekiel 29
Offers a broader context for the judgment against Egypt, explaining the reasons for God's wrath and the consequences for Egypt's pride and idolatry.
The Day of DesolationW. Clarkson Ezekiel 30:1-3, 7
The Lord's Day in EgyptJ.D. Davies Ezekiel 30:1-19
The Fate of the AlliesJ.R. Thomson Ezekiel 30:5-8
People
Cherethites, Cushites, Egyptians, Ethiopians, Ezekiel, Lud, Lydia, Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadrezzar, Pharaoh, Phut
Places
Arabia, Babylon, Cush, Egypt, Libya, Lud, Memphis, Migdol, Nile River, On, Pathros, Pelusium, Pi-beseth, Put, Syene, Tehaphnehes, Thebes, Zoan
Topics
Along, Arabia, Cherethites, Chub, Covenant, Cub, Cush, Death, Egypt, Ethiopia, Fall, Kub, League, Libya, Lud, Lydia, Mingled, Mixed, Mixture, Phut, Sons, Sword
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Ezekiel 30:4

     5317   foundation

Ezekiel 30:2-4

     5899   lament

Ezekiel 30:3-4

     9220   day of the LORD

Library
Sargon of Assyria (722-705 B. C. )
SARGON AS A WARRIOR AND AS A BUILDER. The origin of Sargon II.: the revolt of Babylon, Merodach-baladan and Elam--The kingdom of Elam from the time of the first Babylonian empire; the conquest's of Shutruh-nalkunta I.; the princes of Malamir--The first encounter of Assyria and Elam, the battle of Durilu (721 B.C.)--Revolt of Syria, Iaubidi of Hamath and Hannon of Gaza--Bocchoris and the XXIVth Egyptian dynasty; the first encounter of Assyria with Egypt, the battle of Raphia (720 B.C.). Urartu
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 7

Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and Ungodly Men.
Scriptures Showing The Sin And Danger Of Joining With Wicked And Ungodly Men. When the Lord is punishing such a people against whom he hath a controversy, and a notable controversy, every one that is found shall be thrust through: and every one joined with them shall fall, Isa. xiii. 15. They partake in their judgment, not only because in a common calamity all shares, (as in Ezek. xxi. 3.) but chiefly because joined with and partakers with these whom God is pursuing; even as the strangers that join
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Ezekiel
To a modern taste, Ezekiel does not appeal anything like so powerfully as Isaiah or Jeremiah. He has neither the majesty of the one nor the tenderness and passion of the other. There is much in him that is fantastic, and much that is ritualistic. His imaginations border sometimes on the grotesque and sometimes on the mechanical. Yet he is a historical figure of the first importance; it was very largely from him that Judaism received the ecclesiastical impulse by which for centuries it was powerfully
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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